Cities are desirable destinations for opportunities in America, but small towns truly showcase ‘the American dream.’ You can stay away from the chaos of cities while benefiting from close-knit communities and relaxed lifestyles, especially in the following 18 best small towns in America.
Traverse City, Michigan
Renowned as the largest producer of tart cherries in the US, Traverse City is oozing with sweetness. The National Cherry Festival is just one of the many cultural events on the calendar, making Traverse City an exciting hub of wholesome activity. It is also home to incredible wineries and unusual craft breweries.
Stowe, Vermont
One of the most popular skiing destinations in Vermont, Stowe has retained its small-town vibe despite its tourism. ABC reminds us that Stowe became famous after appearing in The Sound of Music, but it also has much more outdoor activity to offer and is a popular destination for rock climbing and ziplining.
Jacksonville, Oregon
With a population of just 2,898, Jacksonville is one of the most peaceful destinations in the country. Designated a National Historic District, the town was built on gold mines. Now, the town is the heart of Oregon’s wine region, with the Applegate Wine Trail boasting 18 vineyards.
Dahlonega, Georgia
Similar to Jacksonville in many ways, Dahlonega has a vibrant wine industry and is the site of the first Gold Rush in America. A popular destination for trout fishing and home to beautiful waterfalls, Dahlonega is a small town overflowing with outdoor activity and scenic beauty.
Clinton, New Jersey
A town straight out of the movies, Clinton’s main landmark is the famous Red Mill Museum, famous for its movie appearances in My Giant and One True Thing. It’s a truly picturesque town, and even if you’re not a movie fan, you’ll be sure to enjoy the quaint riverside coffee shops Clinton has to offer.
Sitka, Alaska
Sitka is one of the most remote locations in the US, home to a population of under 9000. It’s the former capital of Russian Alaska and is still deeply connected to Russian heritage. Sitka is also home to various wildlife spectacles, such as brown bears, humpback whales, and bald eagles.
Cooperstown, New York
New York’s Cooperstown is a fantastic small town to visit if you love attractions. Surprisingly, the Baseball Hall of Fame is based in this quaint location, along with the Fenimore Art Museum! Both attractions showcase the state’s heritage excellently–there’s a ton to do in this charming town.
Taos, New Mexico
A small town with a rich heritage, Taos is bursting with culture, especially in its art museums, galleries, and performance venues. It also features some truly stunning landscapes, with UNESCO declaring Taos a World Heritage Site in 1992, thanks to its being one of the country’s best showcases of Native American culture.
Camden, Maine
This charming seaside town only has a population of under 5,000, so why visit? Well, its impressive food scene, cultural attractions, and tranquil destination are just three of many reasons. You can even take advantage of Camden’s beautiful beaches, so what more could you want from a vacation destination?
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Featuring stunning Mediterranean architecture throughout the town, it is hard to believe that Carmel-by-the-Sea is in California. The Basilica is a National Historic Landmark, and the town has inspired countless artists and writers. However, Carmel’s biggest claim to fame is that Clint Eastwood was once the mayor.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort is famous as the homeland of Forrest Gump, yet it has a population of just 13,500. Water sports are part of the local culture in Beaufort, with boating and fishing both being incredibly popular. The town is also known for its breathtaking antebellum homes and the taste of history they provide.
Celebration, Florida
With a name like Celebration, you may not be surprised that this Floridian town was developed by Walt Disney. A charming town of beautiful architecture and waterfront views, Forbes named it one of the prettiest neighborhoods in America. If that’s not enough, Celebration also hosts some of the country’s best Cuban restaurants.
Whitefish, Montana
Tucked within Glacier National Park, skiing is the most popular winter activity in Whitefish. However, in the summer, Whitefish transforms, with a population of 7,000 people taking to paddleboarding on the lake. Both activities are best accompanied by a huckleberry cocktail, the regional specialty.
Berlin, Maryland
Nope, we’re not talking about Germany! Featuring 47 buildings on the National Historic Register, Berlin has a certain American charm that is hard to find anywhere else. Made famous in Runaway Bride, Main Street is full of delightful stores and cafes showcasing the best of small-town USA.
Bisbee, Arizona
From the Victorian homes to the Art Deco courthouse, Bisbee’s unique architecture gives this small American town a truly artistic spirit. Once a mining town, visitors have long since dropped the pickaxes in place for paintbrushes as they flock to Bisbee Craft School to learn from local artists.
Marceline, Missouri
One of the most visited small towns in the US, Marceline is Walt Disney’s hometown. According to Missouri Life Magazine, this charming town inspired Main Street USA in Disneyland, and many visit the Marceline Walt Disney Hometown Museum. 2,000 residents still live here, and they celebrate Marceline’s strong coal mining and railroading history.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The mountain town of Gatlinburg, with a population of 4000, is a popular stop on the way to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town is known for its quirky vibe and unique attractions, such as the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Hollywood Star Cars Museum, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
Marfa, Texas
Last but not least, Marfa is renowned as the art mecca of Texas. A major hub for contemporary art, this small town is a must-visit on the conceptual art scene, attracting countless worldwide tourists every year. In 1956, it was also the filming location for the movie Giant, starring Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean.
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